Flick Confirms Raphinha's Stay
Barcelona coach Hansi Flick has made it clear that Brazilian Raphinha remains a key player in his plans, while frustration grows at the club over Frenkie de Jong's continued refusal to undergo surgery.
Barcelona coach Hansi Flick has made it clear that Brazilian Raphinha remains a key player in his plans, while frustration grows at the club over Frenkie de Jong's continued refusal to undergo surgery.
Barcelona coach Hansi Flick has decisively put an end to speculation about the future of Brazilian winger Raphinha. In a statement relayed by specialized journalist Fabrizio Romano on Sunday, August 9, 2026, Flick confirmed that Raphinha stays at the club and that he counts on him seriously.
"Rapha is one of the most important players for me. He brings quality and intensity; we need him," Flick told Romano. This statement comes at a time when media speculated about a possible departure for the Brazilian, but the German tactician has now put an end to all such stories.
When asked about the situation with another forward, Ferran Torres, Flick was considerably more reserved. "I respect all players, I don't know anything about the situation at this moment. I've been focused on the team and I don't know anything," Flick said. This response suggests that the Spaniard's future at the club is still up in the air, unlike Raphinha's, whose status is now crystal clear.
While Flick addresses attacking personnel doubts, a serious issue with midfielder Frenkie de Jong simmers in the background. According to Goal.com, citing Spanish newspaper "Sport," frustration is growing at Barcelona because the Dutch international persistently refuses knee surgery despite poor indicators.
De Jong last played a full match for Barcelona on February 22, 2026. He then missed nine consecutive matches, returned to action, but without a starting spot in six appearances. Despite the issues, he played at the World Cup for the Netherlands until their elimination on June 30.
The key dispute between player and club lies in the interpretation of the agreed four-week period of conservative treatment. De Jong believes this period begins from the moment he returns to training, while Barcelona's management argues it started immediately after the World Cup ended. The club believes the conservative path is now nearly exhausted and insists on surgery.
Knee scans show no signs of improvement, and Barcelona wants to resolve the situation, which has dragged on for months, as soon as possible. If surgery sidelines de Jong for an extended period, the club will explore regulatory mechanisms for registering new players and seek financial compensation from FIFA for an injury sustained on international duty. Flick, on the other hand, needs to know when he can count on one of his key midfielders.
